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Designer & Creative Manager


A LIFELONG CREATIVE, DONNING MANY HATS

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Designer & Creative Manager


A LIFELONG CREATIVE, DONNING MANY HATS


In my journey as a lifelong Designer, I've donned many hats: the Manager's cap guiding teams, the creative beret of a UX Designer, and the Entrepreneurial top hat running my own business.

Beyond design, my hats vary from the martial artist's headband, representing discipline, to the Forex trader's cap, symbolizing strategic risk-taking.

I look forward to discovering new hats and the adventures they will bring. Let’s talk, and create a new adventure.

— Clint Batte — 


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I HELP bring designs to life


THROUGH EXPERIENCE, DEDICATION AND CREATIVE THINKING

I HELP bring designs to life


THROUGH EXPERIENCE, DEDICATION AND CREATIVE THINKING

 

CRAFTING DIGITAL EXPERIENCES


CREATIVE DIRECTION
and TEAM MANAGEMENT

  • Orchestrating a Symphony of Talent: As the creative lead of Dell’s Global Site Design team, I led a diverse crew of 18 Interactive Designers, Art Directors, and Associate Creative Directors. I harmonized their talents, mentoring and guiding them to compose digital experiences that resonate with users worldwide.

  • Cross-functional Team Leadership: Beyond mere management, I've guided many through my leadership with cross-enterprise design teams. My role involved directing, inspiring, and empowering teams to push boundaries and weave creative narratives that elevate user experiences to new heights.

SCULPTING DIGITAL EXCELLENCE

  • Harmonizing Design & Strategy: As a design consultant for internal UX teams, I guided designers and developers through integrating new interactive components. Delivering functional designs and code isn't just about technical mastery; it's about weaving technical feasibility with business objectives to create a tapestry of functional elegance and strategic impact.

  • Digging in / Lending a Hand: I've rolled up my sleeves to provide hands-on direction to UX Designers and User Experience Architects, helping them breathe life into their interactive prototypes. Working as a cohesive team is where art meets science: guiding these artisans in crafting experiences that are not just visually stunning but also intuitively functional, aligning with the highest standards of web governance.

 

PROTOTYPE DEVELOPMENT

  • Innovative HTML: I’ve breathed life into ideas, transforming them into tangible HTML prototypes. My canvas is the ever-evolving landscape of HTML/CSS/JS technologies, where I sculpt digital experiences that are both functional and captivating.

  • Prototyping with Precision: I tailored my approach for each project, from the initial sketches of low-fidelity mockups to the polished Precision of high-fidelity prototypes. I thrive on crafting prototypes that serve as the testing ground for user experiences, ensuring every interaction feels intuitive and seamless.


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Embracing the journey through empowering
the team


Embracing the journey through empowering
the team


 

WORK EXPERIENCE


PRINCIPAL PRODUCT DESIGNER / PRODUCT ANCHOR AT DELL DIGITAL DESIGN
Dell, Round Rock, TX | October 2021– September 2023

  • Consultation and Project Planning for GSCM Digital Tools: In my role as the Principal Product Design Anchor, I helped define the course for the GSCM (Global Supply Chain Management) Digital Inventory Aging E&O (Excess and Obsolete) Tools and EWS (Early Warning Systems) Tools. Working with a cross-functional and globally dispersed team, we guided the transformation of outdated and manual tools and processes into streamlined tools that deliver efficiency and product foresight for a multi-billion dollar enterprise.

  • Guiding Migration and Software Evolutions: My mission extended beyond mere design. I navigated the design, business, and development teams through the complex journey of evolving and transforming the E&O Inventory and EWS systems. This task required a blend of visionary thinking and strategic execution, ensuring that every update and enhancement was a step forward in functionality and user experience based on research and user input.

  • Pioneering Lean UX Methodology into GSCM Organization: I embraced the role of championing the lean UX product development philosophy into the GSCM digital space. My approach focused on streamlining the design and development process, significantly reducing timeframes while boosting production efficiency and deliverability. This methodology wasn't just about speed; it was about crafting a more agile, responsive, and effective production workflow, setting new standards in digital product design.

 

PRINCIPAL PRODUCT DESIGNER AT DELL DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
Dell, Round Rock, TX | June 2019– September 2021

  • Design Lead for the POMA Initiative: As a Principal Product Designer on the Product Operations Maturity Assessment (POMA) team, I undertook the ambitious task of helping create Dell’s inaugural POMA and OGSM tools. The POMA tool was more than a metric system; it was a strategic compass, guiding teams to balance measures and evolve with precision, aligned with targeted goals and objectives.

  • From Vision to Reality: The journey with POMA started with blended innovation and pitching the idea to the CIO. My role was instrumental in securing vital funding from executive leadership. Our work began with defining the problem, creating a working prototype, and then transforming the initial MVP (Minimal Viable Product) prototype from a concept into a full-fledged application. The process from ideation to reality depended on securing executive support and communicating how this project nicely aligned with Dell’s digital transformation journey. Under my guidance, I worked with a globally dispersed and fully remote team of Developers and a seasoned Project Manager; what started as an idea became an application that revolutionized processes across Dell’s IT organization, marking a significant milestone in the digital transformation landscape.

 

SOFTWARE UI DEVELOPER, DIGITAL CREATIVE EXPERIENCE
Dell, Round Rock, TX | March 2018 – May 2019 

  • Crafting Dell.com's UI: As a Software UI Developer, I was part of a team of Designers and Developers tasked with developing modular UI components for Dell.com. Through paired programming and leveraging the agile workflow, we created reusable, production-ready, and universally accessible UI components.

  • Bootstrap and JavaScript: My toolkit included Twitter Bootstrap HTML and CSS via SASS overrides and Vanilla JavaScript for related functions. These tools were my brushes and paints, allowing me to create digital experiences that were functional and aesthetically pleasing. Each component was built on the robust Express.js framework for Node.js, ensuring scalability and efficiency.

  • Consultation and collaboration: I consulted Dell.com’s development teams on implementing Dell’s Bootstrap code. This role required a deep understanding of design and development, ensuring the implementation was seamless and aligned with Dell’s digital standards.

  • Paired Programming and Innovation: Working within the Pivotal Labs department, I embraced the paired programming approach. Collaborating closely with other Pivotal Lab developers, we sought innovative ways to leverage prototype code, enhancing its reusability during the IT development phase. This collaboration wasn’t just about coding but creating a synergy between design and development, streamlining the transition from concept to reality.

 

 

CREATIVE UI DEVELOPER AT DELL DIGITAL DESIGN
Dell, Round Rock, TX | April 2013 – February 2018

  • Digital Prototyping Tools: During my tenure as a Creative UI Developer, working with a cross-functional team, we created Dell’s internal prototyping tool, transforming it into a hub of innovation. My canvas was responsive layouts and template creation, where I meticulously crafted prebuilt HTML and CSS code snippets and widgets. Customizing Twitter Bootstrap CSS with LESS overrides wasn’t just a task; it was an art form, allowing for nuanced, adaptable designs.

  • Framework Architect and Documentarian: Beyond development, I built and documented UX framework-specific functions and interactions. This role was about laying down the foundational blueprints and guidelines, ensuring every piece of the framework was clear, functional, and ready for implementation.

  • Curator of Digital Knowledge: Managing content for www.delldesignsystem.com, I ensured this digital library was a rich repository of knowledge and resources, aiding current and future creative endeavors.

  • Collaborative Innovator: My journey involved close collaboration with Web Designers, UX Architects, Art Directors, and Experience Directors. Together, we created rich HTML prototypes that were more than visual representations; they were narratives of proposed designs brought to life through rapid visual development.

  • Guidance and Support For Digital Design Team Members: I provided ongoing support and guidance to the Digital User Experience design team, ensuring all new site design and interactive work met and exceeded the highest creative excellence standards.

  • Bridge Between Design and Development: My consultative role with Dell.com development teams on Dell’s Bootstrap implementation was creating a seamless link between design intentions and technical execution.

  • Synergy with IT Developers: Collaborating with IT developers, I focused on leveraging prototype code more effectively, increasing its reuse in the IT development phase. This synergy was about efficiency and fostering a shared language between design and development.

 

CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT DELL GLOBAL SITE DESIGN TEAM
Dell, Round Rock, TX | April 2010 – April 2013 

  • Leading Creative Excellence: As Creative Director of the Dell Global Site Design team, I embraced the dual roles of leader and mentor, guiding a diverse group of 18 Interactive Designers, Art Directors, and Associate Creative Directors. Together, we embarked on a mission to innovate and evolve the digital landscape of Dell.com. My responsibility extended beyond mere management; it was about nurturing a culture where creativity and innovation flourished, setting new standards in digital design.

  • Pioneering Dell.com’s Evolution: I played a pivotal role in the hands-on technical and creative direction of the new Dell.com site. My guidance was instrumental in the site’s evolution, ensuring brand consistency and a cohesive design language.

  • Strategizing Dell.com’s Future: Working with a team of Designers, Executives, and Developers, we planned the evolving strategy for Dell.com’s customer-facing website. We aimed to create an all-new site design based on user testing, customer sentiment, and solid UI practices. This role was about envisioning the future and making it a reality.

  • Building Executive Relationships: My leadership extended to creating and nurturing executive-level relationships with key stakeholders across Dell.com’s Information Technology, Marketing, and Business divisions. These relationships were vital in aligning creative visions with business goals.

  • Project Management: I provided comprehensive creative project management for all creative endeavors, coordinating with teams of designers, UX Architects, Developers, and Program Managers to ensure seamless execution and delivery.

  • Leading with Clarity and Vision: My leadership included conducting weekly client status meetings and focusing on creative, delivery, and production updates to guarantee on-time delivery and clear communication.

  • Innovating UX/Design Prototyping: Evolving a team of designers from mere Photoshop mock-ups to prototyping interactive MVP solutions for user testing was no small feat. I initiated developing and innovating cutting-edge UX/design prototyping infrastructure, significantly enhancing the speed and effectiveness of executing creative solutions for Dell.com.

 

CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT SPEAKTECH
speakTECH, Austin, TX | June 2008 – April 2010

  • Designing for a Select Few: With a team of Designers, I guided interactive solutions for a myriad of Fortune 100 clients, crafting digital experiences that not only met but surpassed the highest standards of the corporate world.

  • Mentoring a Team of Creatives: At speakTECH, I led the creative design team, nurturing their skills and fostering a collaborative environment that brought out the best in each member.

  • Strategic Presales Strategies: My role involved developing presale strategies and support, ensuring every creative and interactive design project was not just a pitch but strategically aligned with client needs and objectives.

  • Business Development: I was instrumental in business development for all creative projects. Business development entailed managing client discovery, defining project scopes, presenting tailored solutions, and balancing each client’s goals with their budget constraints.

  • Fostering Executive Relationships: I built and sustained executive-level relationships with key stakeholders in the IT, Marketing, and Advertising divisions of Fortune 100 clients, ensuring synergy between our creative strategies and their corporate objectives.

  • Poised for Success: Managed a diverse team of Designers, Developers, Program Managers, Contractors, and client team members, leading them toward cohesive, timely project delivery.

  • Client Communication: Led weekly client status meetings, focusing on creative execution, delivery, budget adherence, and production updates, ensuring every project stayed on track and aligned with client expectations.

  • Rebranding with Impact: Redesigned and rebranded speakTECH’s overall look, including the website and logo. This transformation refreshed our corporate identity and significantly boosted our business presence and online traffic.

 

CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT ASCENTIUM
Spokane, WA | May 2006 – June 2008

  • Leading Creative Innovation: At the core of Ascentium, I guided and mentored the creative design team, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. Together, we pushed the boundaries of digital design, creating print and interactive solutions that set new standards in the industry.

  • Designing for the Giants: My canvas was vast, designing Intranet and Internet sites for Fortune 100 clients using MOSS SharePoint Server 2007. Each project was a meticulous blend of form and function, tailored to meet the grand scale of our client’s visions.

  • Strategic Vision in Presales: Developed comprehensive presale strategies and support for our creative and interactive design projects. This role was about more than just sales; it was about crafting a vision that resonated with clients and aligned with their objectives.

  • Business Development: My expertise extended to the business side of creativity. I managed client discovery, determined project scopes, and presented solutions that met and exceeded business expectations while carefully balancing client goals and budgets.

  • Account and Project Management: Managed all aspects of account and project management, leading a team of 6 designers, developers, program managers, contractors, and client team members. It was a juggling act of creativity, coordination, and leadership, ensuring every project was a success story.

  • Client Communication: Led weekly client status meetings, meticulously covering creative, delivery, budget, and production updates to guarantee projects stayed on track and clients remained informed and satisfied.

  • Rebranding with Purpose: Assisted in rebranding the company’s Interactive Department, a transformation that was not just about a new look but about redefining our identity and vision in the digital landscape.

 

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR AT MAGNER SANBORN
Spokane, WA | April 2004 – February 2006 

  • Crafting Visual Narratives: As Senior Art Director, I delved into the art of storytelling through design. My portfolio was a kaleidoscope of creativity, encompassing annual reports, direct mail campaigns, brochures, identity programs, print solutions, and interactive user experiences. Each piece was a design and a narrative, conveying messages with clarity and creativity.

  • Cultivating Client Partnerships: Beyond design, my role involved developing and nurturing vital client relationships. I built these client partnerships on trust, understanding, and a shared vision for success.

  • Accolades in Creativity: My work won numerous Addy awards, a testament to the innovation, skill, and passion I brought to each project. These awards were not just honors; they were acknowledgments of my commitment to excellence in art direction.

 

ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT WHITERUNKLE ADVERTISING
Spokane, WA | August 2002 – April 2004 

  • Leadership in Design: As Associate Creative Director, I managed various projects, from direct mail campaigns to brochures, identity programs, print solutions, and TV and interactive user experiences. Each project was a harmonious blend of visual aesthetics and strategic messaging, creating impactful and memorable designs.

  • Fostering Client Connections: My expertise extended to cultivating and maintaining vital client relationships. These bonds were not merely professional but partnerships built on mutual respect and a deep understanding of each client’s unique brand vision.

  • Recognition in Excellence: My creative vision and execution were honored with numerous Addy awards, reflecting a commitment to excellence and innovation in advertising and design.

  • Elevating AT&T Wireless Branding: Played an instrumental role in the team that developed the AT&T Wireless Brand Guidelines. My direction was pivotal in ensuring brand compliance across all AT&T Wireless printed materials, establishing a cohesive and powerful brand presence.

  • Leadership in Team Management: I managed a dynamic team of 8 designers in the Direct Marketing and Point of Sales Divisions, fostering a collaborative and creative environment where each team member could flourish and contribute to our collective success.

  • Client Acquisition: Organizing pitch teams and co-directing strategies for crucial client pitches. My role was critical in securing and expanding our client base, turning pitch opportunities into successful partnerships.

  • Creative Recognition: The multitude of Addy awards received during this period were not just accolades but symbols of our team’s creative prowess and dedication to pushing the boundaries of advertising and design.

 

FOUNDING PARTNER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT MILAGRO ADVERTISING DESIGN
Albuquerque, NM | August 2002 – April 2004 

  • Creative Director and Founding Partner of Design: At Milagro Advertising Design, I was not just a founder but a visionary, designing, directing, and producing a myriad of print materials. My realm spanned from brochures and collateral to corporate identity systems, AT&T Wireless Point of Sales materials, and political campaign materials, each a testament to my creative acumen and strategic insight.

  • Client Acquisition: I co-directed client pitches and played a central role in client acquisition, turning pitches into lasting, fruitful relationships. Pitching and winning new clients required a blend of persuasive communication, creative presentation, and a deep understanding of client needs.

  • Fostering Client Connections: Managed vital client relationships and accounts, ensuring each partnership flourished under my stewardship. I fostered and sustained long-term client relationships built on trust, respect, and a shared vision for success.

  • Business and Daily Operations: I steered daily business operations beyond the creative realm. From billing and accounts receivable to payroll and vendor management, I handled each aspect of the business with the same meticulous attention to detail and strategic planning that I applied to my creative work.

  • A Legacy of Awards: During my tenure at Milagro Advertising Design, I won numerous Addy awards, each recognizing the creative innovation and excellence we brought to every project.

 

SENIOR DESIGNER AT KILMER & KILMER
Albuquerque, NM | June 1997 – February 2000 

  • Crafting Brand Identities: As a Senior Designer, I specialized in creating corporate identity and branding solutions. My designs were visuals and strategic narratives that shaped and defined brand identities.

  • Versatile Design Expertise: My portfolio includes various projects, from annual reports to direct mail, print, and TV solutions. Each project was an opportunity to showcase my adaptability and creativity in multiple mediums.

  • Recognized Design Excellence: My work for Jones Cable was a highlight of this period, earning recognition in the How Digital Design Annual 1998 and the How Design Annual 1998. These awards were a testament to my innovative approach and digital and print design skills.

  • A Trail of Awards: The numerous Addy awards received during my time at Kilmer & Kilmer were more than accolades; they affirm my commitment to excellence in design.

 

ART DIRECTOR AT HEDSTROM/BLESSING, INC
Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul Area, MN | March 1995 – June 1997 

  • Packaging Design: At Hedstrom/Blessing, I was the lead Designer for the Target StoreIt and HangIT Packaging divisions, infusing creativity and market insight into every aspect of design and development. My role was to transform the packaging into a visual story that resonated with consumers, overseeing the creation of packaging for approximately 650 SKUs.

  • Behind the Lens: Directed key photoshoots for Target StoreIt and HangIT Packaging divisions, a monumental task that spanned eight months. These shoots were more than just capturing images; they were about creating a visual language that spoke directly to the Target audience.

  • Designer of the Season’s Highlight: My design for Target’s top-selling Christmas Gingerbread Packaging in 1997 blended festive spirit and commercial appeal, capturing the essence of the holiday season.

  • Accolades in Digital Excellence: My work won a prestigious How Design Annual Interactive Award in 1997, highlighting my innovative approach to interactive design.

  • Honored in Print Design: The Print Digital Design Annual in 1997 also awarded my efforts, acknowledging my proficiency in blending artistic vision with digital technology.

 

GRAPHIC DESIGNER AT BAKER ASSOCIATES
Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul Area, MN | February 1994 – March 1995 

  • Retail Packaging: As a critical member of the design team at Baker Associates, I dove into the vibrant world of retail packaging. My canvas was an array of iconic brands like General Mills, Keebler, and Nabisco. Each project was a unique blend of creativity and market insight, where I played a crucial role in shaping the visual identity of household names.

  • Designing Brands, We all know and Love: I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to the packaging designs of beloved products such as Cheerios, Dizzy Grizzlies, Nutter Butter, Cheese Nips, and Chips Ahoy! These weren’t just packaging designs but visual stories on grocery shelves, engaging customers and enhancing brand recognition.

  • Crafting Consumer Connections: My work focused on creating packaging solutions that stood out on the shelves and resonated with consumers. Each design carefully balanced aesthetics and functionality, contributing to the product’s appeal and the brand’s narrative.